The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has clarified its stance on the involvement of Bangladeshi players in the Indian Premier League (IPL) amid growing backlash. According to reports, the BCCI has asked Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman from their squad.
Mustafizur became the costliest Bangladeshi player at an IPL auction, with Kolkata Knight Riders securing him for Rs 9.20 crore. However, his signing has triggered controversy, as reports of violence against religious minorities in Bangladesh have led to questions over his involvement in the Indian Premier League 2026.
BCCI Instructed KKR to Release Mustafizur Rahman – Devajit Saikia
The Board of Control for Cricket in India has taken a stance regarding the participation of Bangladeshi players in the IPL. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that Kolkata Knight Riders have been instructed to release Mustafizur Rahman from their squad due to recent developments.
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Saikia also added that the BCCI will permit KKR to sign a replacement player if the franchise chooses to do so, ensuring they are not left short-handed for the upcoming season.
“Due to the recent developments that are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their squad and BCCI has also said that if they ask for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement,” Saikia said.
#WATCH | Guwahati | BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia says, “Due to the recent developments that are going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchise KKR to release one of their players, Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh, from their squad and BCCI has also said that if they ask… pic.twitter.com/53oxuRcmZp
— ANI (@ANI) January 3, 2026
Mustafizur Rahman’s IPL Journey and the Controversy Around His Signing
Mustafizur Rahman has played in the IPL since 2016 and has featured for several teams over the years. He has taken 65 wickets in 60 matches at an economy rate of 8.13.
The left-arm pacer has represented franchises such as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Mumbai Indians (MI), Rajasthan Royals (RR), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Last season, he returned to Delhi Capitals as an injury replacement.
His signing by Kolkata Knight Riders sparked controversy. Spiritual leader Devkinandan Thakur criticized KKR and co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, saying the move hurt religious sentiments amid reports of attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh.
The remarks drew mixed reactions from political leaders, with many stressing that sports should remain separate from politics and international issues.
Also read: Mustafizur Rahman faces Death Threats over IPL 2026 participation; KKR’s ₹9.20 crore gamble in jeopardy